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30.00 Policy on Speech and Advocacy

The University is committed to assuring that all persons may exercise the constitutionally protected rights of free expression, speech, assembly, and worship.

30.20

It is the responsibility of the Chancellor to assure an ongoing opportunity for the expression of a variety of viewpoints.

30.30

The time, place, and manner of exercising the constitutionally protected rights of free expression, speech, assembly, and worship are subject to campus regulations that shall provide for non-interference with University functions and reasonable protection to persons against practices that would make them involuntary audiences or place them in reasonable fear, as determined by the University, for their personal safety.

30.31 Speech and Advocacy

The University has a special obligation to protect the right of free inquiry and free expression. On University grounds open to the public generally, all persons may exercise the constitutionally protected rights of free expression, speech, assembly, and worship. Such activities shall not interfere with the orderly operation of the campus and must be conducted in accordance with campus time, place, and manner regulations. Physical force, the threat of force, and other coercive activities used to subject anyone to a speech of any kind are expressly prohibited.

A. Time, Place, and Manner Regulations

The time, place, and manner of exercising free speech and advocacy shall be consistent with orderly behavior and the normal conduct of University affairs. Regard for the privacy of others shall be observed, and reasonable precautions shall be taken to avoid practices that could render a person unable to avoid unwanted speech.

B. Areas for Public Gatherings

Specific areas and properties available for public meetings and gathering are assigned through the appropriate scheduling office. Check with the Office of Student Life, or online at www.ucsf.edu/osl/reserve, for a list of specific areas and reservation guidelines.

C. Amplification

Reasonable levels of amplified sound are permitted in specified Special Use Areas. Time regulations for amplified sound are site specific. Prior approval is required by the Director of Student Life. (For Special Use Area Guidelines and Procedures contact the Office of Student Life, or online at http://osl.ucsf.edu/space.html)

D. Non-University Speakers

Non-University persons are permitted to speak without invitation in areas of the campus open to the public; however, because such areas are limited, a reservation is advised through the appropriate scheduling office. Except as provided by Section 40.40 [university grounds open to the public] and subject to Section 30 [speech and advocacy], non-University persons may address meetings in all other areas only by invitation from an authorized student government, a registered club or organization, campus departments, and/or officially recognized organizations. Faculty members may invite non-University persons to appear in classes in accordance with the academic policy on guest lecturers.

30.40

The University recognizes, supports, and shall not abridge the constitutional rights of faculty, students, or staff to participate, either as individuals or as members of a group, in the political process of supporting candidates for public office or any other political activity.